Your Family’s Trusted Dental Home in Ellicott City
At Major League Smiles, we’re proud to be the go-to general dentistry practice for families in Ellicott City, Catonsville, and throughout Howard County. Dr. Justin Maxwell and our team are committed to providing exceptional, comfortable dental services right here in our community.
General Dentistry & Disease Prevention: A Home Run!
Dr. Maxwell believes in educating patients about their oral health. Understanding how to care for your teeth and gums is important for your long-term health. Our team can show you proper brushing and flossing techniques, and help you recognize early signs of dental problems. This is all a part of your preventive care visits at Major League Smiles. Our goal is to cover all the bases for your smile so that you can avoid problems affecting your oral health. We believe that a healthy smile is a home run!
- Custom Mouthguard: A custom mouthguard protects your teeth during games at the Howard County fields or nighttime grinding. It’s made to fit perfectly in your mouth so it’s much more comfortable and stronger than store-bought options. A well-fitted mouthguard helps prevent chipped teeth, jaw injuries, and other damage.
- Emergency Dentistry: Emergency dentistry is urgent care for dental injuries, severe pain, or infections. Quick treatment can relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. Immediate attention will save a damaged or knocked-out tooth.
- Family Dentistry: Family dental care is comprehensive care for patients of all ages. From routine cleanings to restorative treatments, it ensures lifelong oral health. As a family dentist, Dr. Maxwell understands the busy schedules of Ellicott City families. Whether you’re heading to activities at Centennial Park, games at Howard High School, or exploring Main Street, we design our scheduling and care to fit seamlessly into your local lifestyle.
Dental Cleanings and Exams
Regular dental cleanings and exams will keep your oral health in top condition. These appointments allow Dr. Maxwell to detect any potential problems early. Cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup. We recommend visiting us every six months for these check-ups.
Taking good care of your teeth is one of the best ways to avoid cavities, gum problems, and other dental issues. Dr. Maxwell recommends brushing your teeth at least two times every day and don’t forget to floss once a day too! Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a toothpaste that contains fluoride to gently clean your teeth and strengthen them. Keeping up with these simple habits every day helps get rid of sticky plaque and keeps your smile healthy and strong.
Fillings and Restorations
Dental fillings restore teeth to their former glory. Dr. Maxwell offers both composite and amalgam fillings to fill common cavities. The process involves removing the decayed part of the tooth and filling it with a strong material. This procedure helps prevent further decay, restores the tooth’s function, and improves how it looks.
Tooth Extractions
Sometimes, a tooth may need to be extracted because of severe decay, damage, or overcrowding. Dr. Maxwell performs tooth extractions carefully to minimize discomfort. Before the extraction, he discusses the procedure and provides instructions for post-extraction care.
Removing teeth is usually a last resort because there’s nothing better than to have your natural tooth protecting your smile. If we do suggest an extraction, it’s because nothing else will help save the tooth.
Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
Dental sealants and fluoride treatments are effective preventive measures. Sealants are thin coatings we apply to the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They do a great job to protect against cavities. Fluoride treatments help strengthen enamel and reduce the risk of decay. Dr. Maxwell offers both treatments, so you can enjoy all the sweet treats from Historic Main Street without worry.
Patient Review
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child first visit the dentist?
We recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. These early visits help them get comfortable with the dental setting, and allow us to monitor development.
How often should my family see the dentist for a check-up?
We recommend a dental exam and cleaning every six months for most patients. These regular visits prevent cavities, gum disease, and catch issues early before they become expensive problems. For some patients with specific conditions, Dr. Maxwell may suggest more frequent visits.
What should I do in a dental emergency, like a knocked-out tooth?
Call our Ellicott City office immediately at (443) 335-8726 for guidance. For a knocked-out permanent tooth, gently rinse it (without scrubbing), try to place it back in the socket, or keep it in milk. Time is critical, so we prioritize same-day emergency appointments.
Are custom mouthguards really better than store-bought ones?
Yes. Our custom-fit mouthguards, crafted from precise impressions of your teeth, offer superior protection, comfort, and stability. They are more durable, less bulky, don’t interfere with breathing, and are the safest choice because our dentist has your back.
Does my child really need dental sealants?
In most cases, yes. It’s a very smart preventive step. As soon as those permanent molars come in, sealants provide a smooth and protective layer that makes the teeth much easier to clean. They are far less likely to get cavities, saving you time, money, and worry down the road.
What payment options do you accept, and do you take my dental insurance?
We will file claims on your behalf as a courtesy. Please note that we collect your estimated co-payment, deductible, or any non-covered portion at the time of your service. For your convenience, we also accept various payment methods, including cash, credit/debit cards, and flexible financing options through CareCredit.
Please remember: Your treatment plan is designed for your health, not based on insurance coverage. While we provide estimates, your insurance plan makes the final decision on payment, and you are responsible for any remaining balance.
Schedule A Dental Visit Today
Ready for quality dental care close to home? We welcome new patients from Ellicott City, Oella, Ilchester, and all surrounding neighborhoods. Schedule your family’s appointment at our convenient Ellicott City dental office today. You can request an appointment online or contact us at (410) 740-7008.